Astrology of Today – May 5, 2016

The Moon is in Taurus from 1:10 PM forward (until Saturday, May 7th, at 12:34 PM).

The Moon is waning and in its Waning Crescent phase.

A Last Quarter Moon occurred on the 29th, and a New Moon will occur tomorrow.

Mercury is retrograde (Mercury is retrograde from April 28-May 22).

Mars is retrograde (Mars is retrograde from April 17-June 29).

Times are EDT

Horoscopes

Aries

Aries

This morning, if you don’t know what you want, you can be especially restless, dear Aries. Ambivalence is likely today – others are having a hard time making decisions. You may be in the position to make a choice between taking a risk or sticking with the familiar; between trying something different or doing the practical thing. Try not to let small matters escalate into full-blown dramas. Remember that people around you can be especially sensitive. While you could be feeling as if you’re winding up with nowhere to go, it’s better to wind down today with a Balsamic Moon. The New Moon occurring tomorrow will help direct you. This afternoon brings calmer energy for settling down.

Taurus

Taurus

It’s a little too easy to get your goat or to have you question a recent choice in the first half of the day, dear Taurus. You might feel that others are pushing you or demanding too much from you. While you’re generally being received well these days with Venus in your sign, today you might not be able to bask. Some awkwardness in social situations is possible. Slight tweaks and adjustments may be necessary if you’re looking to get something you want. Don’t push things for now, and don’t accept others’ attempts to push you, either. The Moon moves into your sign early afternoon and is Balsamic. Tomorrow, a New Moon will occur in your sign, making today a better time to wind down, rest, reflect, and let go.

Gemini

Gemini

You may not be seeing things the same way with a partner or friend today, dear Gemini, and may feel you can’t really get onto the same page no matter what you do. This kind of thing happens from time to time and it’s best not to push it – instead, find ways to make adjustments and to seek out your own happiness for now. Old issues that you thought you had buried might emerge and occupy your mind. There can be a feeling of being out of sync, and it can be hard to go after what you want either because you’re not certain about your desires or because circumstances seem to prevent a clear-cut and direct path to your goals. Tomorrow’s New Moon is likely to promote a sense of direction in your life, and this afternoon’s energies better help you to unwind and relax.

Cancer

Cancer

Relationships in the first half of the day can be a little tricky, dear Cancer, and even what would normally be simple decisions on another day can be a challenge now. Wants and desires seem to be out of whack. Friendly gestures may be taken the wrong way, something that’s said can be misinterpreted, and other such minor social hiccups. Fortunately, you’ll find it relatively easy to smooth everything over, especially if you lift yourself above the moment and don’t take these things too seriously. Try not to make firm plans today. The second half of the day features smoother, calmer energy. Tomorrow’s New Moon can refresh your thinking, and possibly even your confidence. For now, it’s appropriate to tie up loose ends, let go, and clear your mind rather than throw yourself into something brand new.

Leo

Leo

People in your life, in general, require a little more care and sensitivity in the first half of today, dear Leo, as there can be some misunderstandings or hurt feelings. It may be difficult to pinpoint the reason for discontent for most of us. An impulse buy or the desire to enter into a new arrangement can be compelling today but not necessarily wise, as you may be drawn to do something with yourself, but it’s unlikely that you know what it is you truly want, so you can easily be led astray. The energies of the second half of the day make it easier to get in touch with yourself, and it’s in fact a powerful time to do so with a Balsamic Moon and a New Moon set to occur tomorrow and helping you to better direct and focus your energies.

Virgo

Virgo

In the first half of the day, there can be some tensions, both internal and between others, dear Virgo. People may be trying to one-up each other, or they may be feeling desirous but not sure what they truly want. As well, be careful with how you word your opinions, which might feel like an attack on someone’s values, even if it’s not what you intend. Tensions in the family unit can also surface today, and the answer lies in slowing down. Listen to your instincts, but perhaps wait to act upon them if any part of you is hesitant. Disagreeableness can be a strong tendency in the morning, but you and others tend to crave more harmony as the day advances, making it easier to unwind. Tomorrow’s New Moon is likely to help you find a stronger sense of direction.

Libra

Libra

People are either very indirect in their approach to getting what they want today, dear Libra, or running roughshod over others’ feelings going after something that they think they want! Conflicts between Venus and Mars as well as Mars and Uranus can stir up all sorts of energy, but there may not be easy channels for it to flow smoothly. Conversations can be tricky and possibly a little messy as well. Try not to get wrapped up in wants and desires and instead find ways to unwind, let go, and get in touch with your heart today. The second half of the day should be easier for achieving these goals. Tomorrow’s New Moon can bring a nice charge to your life and a stronger feeling of motivation. Consider ways to make improvements, and then put your plans into action in the coming week.

Scorpio

Scorpio

It will be important, although a little difficult, to pace yourself today, dear Scorpio. There can be social missteps or awkwardness with others. Adjustments need to be made before pushing forward, possibly finance-related ones. Getting onto the same page as a partner may be challenging, and it may be better not to try too hard – instead, try to let things pass. Others may not “get” what you want unless you spell it out for them. Save very important discussions for a time when people are less confused about their own desires. In the face of disagreements, attempt to be as good-natured as possible now. As the day advances, you’ll find both you and people around you will find it easier to unwind and to be less concerned about getting their way. A New Moon will occur in your relationship zone tomorrow, bringing a fresh start to relating patterns.

Sagittarius

Sagittarius

You might unwittingly stir up troubles today, dear Sagittarius, thinking you can change something or someone. However, it’s not a time to push others, and it’s best to reconsider your own priorities. There may be some feelings of resentment stirred. You could feel that others are draining you, when in fact you are better off looking within for answers. Wait it out, as it’s temporary. Do your share of the work, and avoid worrying about what others are or aren’t doing. As the day advances, you’re more inclined to do just that, and this can be calming. Keeping busy is important now, but try to meditate in motion in some way, as you can really benefit from reflection on your needs. The New Moon tomorrow should bring a charge of energy for new beginnings when it comes to daily affairs and routines.

Capricorn

Capricorn

In the first half of the day, you may be suffering from temporary lack of confidence in your creative output or in a relationship, dear Capricorn, making it an inopportune time to push an idea or advance a relationship. You’d be better off waiting for a day in which you feel in sync and in tune. A sense that you might stir the pot too much if you ask for something directly is with you, and yet you still want to fill your desires. People can easily feel slighted, and maybe it’s better to avoid drama right now, which can very easily escalate. Keep in mind that people are not especially in touch with their true needs and may be chasing things that have little chance of satisfying them, and this can include you. As the day advances, you are in much better shape for getting in touch with your heart’s desires. Take every opportunity to do so, as tomorrow’s New Moon brings powerful energy for going after what you want.

Aquarius

Aquarius

It can be difficult in the first half of the day to get onto the same page as others, dear Aquarius, and to keep plans running smoothly. It’s best not to push your agenda and instead wait for a more pleasant day when others tend to want to cooperate for important talks or interviews. The problem now is that you may be meeting with people who either won’t budge on an issue, or who are wavering, lacking the confidence or presence of mind to make a firm decision. There could be a dilemma between your personal and social lives for some of you. Emotions run hot and cold this morning, but tend to smooth out as the day advances. In fact, tonight is strong for winding down and coming to a stronger sense of your priorities.

Pisces

Pisces

Frustrations in the first half of the day are likely due to poor timing, dear Pisces. It can be difficult to come to agreements with others, and challenging to truly know what you want most. Your best bet is to avoid the trap of thinking something outside of yourself is the answer to all your problems. Avoid overloading your schedule today if this is possible. You might also want to avoid bringing up tricky topics, as any debates started today can easily escalate into arguments or stand-offs. As the day advances, you might discover a more easygoing atmosphere and thoroughly enjoy it. Tomorrow’s New Moon brings fresh energy and motivation for pouring yourself into projects you love.
*Remember to read horoscopes for your Ascendant sign and Sun sign.

The Details:

If you’re astrologically inclined and interested in the details of the Astrology of today, here are some of the factors considered in the forecasts (for the astrology of the week, see This Week in Astrology):

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 1:10 pm
Event: Moon enters Taurus
Description: The Moon in Taurus
This is a time for settling in, establishing and maintaining routines, and consolidating existing projects. We are building and developing. We crave predictability, stability, and security. This time favors ongoing projects and activities more than new ones.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 0:16 am
Event: Moon goes void of course

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 0:16 am
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Ura
Description: Transiting Moon Conjunction Transiting Uranus
Be open to new ideas. Spontaneity is the order of the day. You are free to explore new unexpected possibilities.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 0:24 am
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Mar
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting Mars
We can overreact and exhibit impatience. However, this can also be a time of self-motivation.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 7:49 am
Event: Tr-Tr Mon SSq Nep
Description: Transiting Moon SemiSquare Transiting Neptune
If we are not in touch with our need for inspiration, beauty, compassion, connection to something otherworldly, or our spirituality, we could feel out of sorts right now. Relaxing, listening to music, getting close to nature, or taking a break may resolve this.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 10:26 am
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Jup
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting Jupiter
Time to show some restraint. Grandiosity is not appealing. Neither is excess. Practice self-control. Self-indulgence is more likely now. We’re not as inclined to consider the consequences of over-eating, over-drinking, or overdoing in general. We may be acting in a haughty manner.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 1:10 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Cnj Tau
Description: Transiting Moon Entering Taurus
This is a time for settling in, establishing and maintaining routines, and consolidating existing projects. We are building and developing. We crave predictability, stability, and security. This time favors ongoing projects and activities more than new ones.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 1:18 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Sat
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting Saturn
We could feel burdened, restricted, or limited during this brief influence. We could be feeling a little down on ourselves, excluded, or lonely. There can be some awkwardness or stiffness and difficulty showing affection and feelings. Patience is a virtue right now; otherwise we might succumb to feelings of frustration and sadness. All good things come to those who wait.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 9:28 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Opp Jun
Description: Transiting Moon Opposition Transiting Juno
Something can be revealed or learned about our relationships. There can be hypersensitivity and moodiness. Temptations to manipulate or control others if we are driven by fear.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 9:38 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Sqq Nod
Description: Transiting Moon SesquiSquare Transiting North Node
There may be the need to pause to adjust things before moving plans forward. We could feel at odds with others on an emotional level. Public relations are not as favorable now.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 11:47 pm
Event: Tr-Tr Mon Qnx Mar
Description: Transiting Moon Quincunx Transiting Mars
There can be tension and feelings of restlessness or impatience, as what we want to do may not feel perfectly right, or we may be lacking the courage. Avoid taking it out on the wrong things or people.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 10:10 am
Event: Tr-Tr Ven Qnx Mar
Description: Transiting Venus Quincunx Transiting Mars
Feeling tense? It is time to discover your life’s passion. This could be a person or a vocation or a creative hobby.

Date & Time: 5 May 2016 7:10 am
Event: Tr-Tr Mar Sqq Ura
Description: Transiting Mars SesquiSquare Transiting Uranus
We may be looking to dominate or to assert our independence if we feel trapped, restricted, or otherwise limited. Impulsiveness can be a problem. With creativity, we may be able to break through obstacles in unusual and unique ways.

FIRE STRONG
Fire is enthusiastic, dynamic, and spontaneous, but lacks reflection. We are more courageous and adventurous now, with a tendency to act before thinking. There is little concern about what happened in the past. We are competitive and possibly impatient or bored easily.
EARTH STRONG
We are especially in touch with the physical world. We consider what we’ve learned and experienced in the past in order to make the most of the present. We can be cautious, practical, and possibly unimaginative. We are deliberate and can pace ourselves well. We need hands-on experience and are not impressed with theory as much as we are with results. Routines are tolerable and comforting.
AIR WEAK
We may have a difficult time being objective or detached. We may not be especially communicative.
WATER WEAK
There may be some insensitivity or lack of empathy now. We may be out of touch with what we’re feeling or with our emotional needs. We may be tougher than usual now, and more inclined to follow mental or practical considerations than we are to listen to our intuition.

BALANCE OF MODES

The modes are balanced.

LUNAR PHASE: BALSAMIC
Moon less than 45 degrees behind the Sun.
Time to tie up loose ends, review, reflect, let go, and edit.

The following aspects (major only) and positions are at noon (EDT) on May 5th:

Note that when an aspect is applying, it has not yet happened but is within orb – it’s pending. When an aspect is separating, it has already happened/perfected and is moving away from the aspect. Depending on the speed of the planet/body involved, the aspect will have perfected, or will perfect, in a matter of hours (often the case with the Moon), days, months, and possibly years in the case of the very slow-moving outer planets and bodies.

Note that the Moon moves at a rate of approximately one degree every 2 hours, so that if an aspect involving is applying and has an orb of 5 degrees, the aspect will perfect (be exact) in about 10 hours. If the Moon is separating from an aspect with an orb of 2 degrees, it has already formed said aspect approximately 4 hours ago (since the following are positions at noon today, then it would have occurred at about 8 AM today).

**I suggest paying close attention to applying aspects. The energy of the aspect builds as it gets closer to exact. Once an aspect involving inner planets has happened, it’s over. Separating aspects are good to know for context, but in terms of energy that is with us today, applying aspects are most important. (This is the case for daily astrology influences involving inner planets, which pass quickly, and not natal astrology aspects, which are with us for a lifetime).

THE MOON

THE MOON IN ARIES
We are itching to take action and to pioneer something. All things equal, this is a time to begin new projects. Exercise patience and selflessness where possible, but embrace Aries’ courage and directness. Look for new opportunities.

ASPECTS OF THE MOON
CONJUNCTION VENUS Orb 7°41′ Applying
We are less inhibited and more willing to indulge ourselves. Decorating, beauty treatments, the arts, creative pursuits, parties, dates, and recreation are generally favored now. There is increased sensitivity, affection, and warmth.

CONJUNCTION URANUS Orb 7°21′ Separating
This can be a time when we feel a need to make a change, however big or small, and we may feel compelled to experiment or improvise. We don’t want to feel restricted by routine or convention now.

THE SUN

THE SUN IN TAURUS
You are a reliable and solid individual. You have a strong need for stable routine and security. You can be stubborn. Others can rely on your down-to-earth nature.

16TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Carotid arteries
Sabian Symbol: An old man attempting vainly to reveal the mysteries.

ASPECTS OF THE SUN
CONJUNCTION MERCURY Orb 6°06′ Applying
Thoughts and communications about ourselves and our goals. We are expressing ourselves confidently, directly, and clearly.

CONJUNCTION VENUS Orb 8°37′ Applying
We take pride in our ability to relate well with others or to smooth over differences now. Graciousness, diplomacy, charm, and some superficiality are themes. This is a good period for social affairs, pleasure, amusement, and romance, all things considered.

TRINE JUPITER Orb 2°17′ Separating
There can be a nice, healthy feeling of optimism and confidence now. We might promote, publish, advertise, or market with greater success. We are generous and tolerant, giving people the benefit of the doubt, expecting the best from others and from ourselves. We can see the big picture.

QUINCUNX SATURN Orb 0°29′ Separating
We can become aware of responsibilities or time limitations now that can hold us back from spontaneous, direct choices and actions. Results are delayed, and we need to be patient. This is a time for slowing down in order to make adjustments and edits to our plans.

TRINE PLUTO Orb 1°50′ Applying
You are a powerful person with strong leadership abilities. You know when to be assertive and when to compromise. You are able to apply yourself to the job at hand.

MERCURY

MERCURY IN TAURUS
You place importance on traditional knowledge. You learn in a slow, methodical and hands-on manner. You stick to old ideas and may fear having to learn anything new.

ASPECTS OF MERCURY
TRINE PLUTO Orb 4°15′ Applying
This is a good time for serious and determined study and investigation. We are drawn to looking for truths and to unexplored topics and ideas.

SEXTILE CHIRON Orb 2°23′ Separating
There is more sensitivity to what is communicated, and how it’s communicated. We are looking at things in a more holistic way.

VENUS

VENUS IN TAURUS
For you romance and reliability go hand in hand. You approach relationships slowly and steadily, looking for someone who will prove solid and secure. You enjoy sensuality, and are reliable with finances.

7TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Vocal cords
Sabian Symbol: A woman of samaria comes to draw water from the well.

ASPECTS OF VENUS
QUINCUNX MARS Orb 0°06′ Separating
You have difficulty asserting yourself in relationships. You need to find a way to ask for what you want from your loved ones.

TRINE JUPITER Orb 6°19′ Applying
You have a talent for putting other people at their ease. Your natural enthusiasm is contagious. Your larger-than-life schemes have a habit of always paying off.

MARS

MARS IN SAGITTARIUS
You are an inspirational leader, and have a strong desire for exploration and adventure. You may be one-pointed in your desires.

7TH DEGREE OF SAGITTARIUS
Part of Body: Right superior femoral artery
Sabian Symbol: Cupid knocking at the door.

ASPECTS OF MARS
SQUARE NEPTUNE Orb 4°47′ Separating
This is a time for resting, escaping, or taking a break as we reconsider our needs. We might temporarily lose focus or direction.

JUPITER

JUPITER IN VIRGO
You have a strong desire to be of service, and high religious or spiritual ideals. You may also have an obsession with detailed perfection.

14TH DEGREE OF VIRGO
Part of Body: Cystic arteries
Sabian Symbol: A family tree.

ASPECTS OF JUPITER
SQUARE SATURN Orb 1°48′ Applying
We are faced with the need to temper our enthusiasm or to slow down to avoid overextending ourselves. This is a time for clarifying and editing projects and goals. We may need to cut back on something in order to grow in another area. Patience is required now.

OPPOSITION NEPTUNE Orb 1°39′ Applying
We may be misled easily under this influence–by others, or by our own unrealistic or inflated expectations. Routine seems to be particularly unsatisfying now, as we are inclined to want to find more meaning in what we’re doing.

TRINE PLUTO Orb 4°08′ Separating
You are enthusiastic about so many things, and have ambition to succeed. You naturally find yourself in leadership positions and react well to them.

CONJUNCTION THE NORTH NODE Orb 7°07′ Applying
Your current life challenge is to embrace adventure. You may find yourself in situations which inspire you to see the big picture. Inspiring others, possibly through preaching or teaching, may be part of your life’s destiny. Benevolent groups may also play a key role.

SATURN

SATURN IN SAGITTARIUS
Saturn in Sagittarius asks us to take on the responsibility of living according to our personal truths and principles, and to be loyal to these. This is a time for turning a critical eye to those beliefs and principles that don’t accurately reflect our authentic selves. (December 23, 2014 to June 14, 2015, then September 17, 2015 to December 20, 2017)

ASPECTS OF SATURN
SQUARE NEPTUNE Orb 3°27′ Applying
Some feelings of disillusionment can come now as our dreams and ideals can be put to the test. Questioning our faith in our dreams can lead to lack of follow-through or wasteful activities and avoidance of responsibilities. Ideally, this crisis leads to a realignment of material goals and spiritual ideals as we assess what is truly meaningful to us.

URANUS

URANUS IN ARIES
The urge to start fresh, to break free from restrictive attitudes or circumstances, to totally redesign an area of our lives (or even our personalities), and to gain freedom through independence is strong during this cycle. (May 27, 2010 to August 13, 2010, then March 11th, 2011 to May 15, 2018, then November 6, 2018 to March 6, 2019).

22ND DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Cheek muscles
Sabian Symbol: The gate to the garden of desire.

ASPECTS OF URANUS
SQUARE PLUTO Orb 4°28′ Separating
A time for making sweeping changes and for adapting to changes in order to progress. This is a time for revising, altering, overhauling, and purging. We can experience tension, fear, and pressure, but also a sense of liberation from over-attachments and situations that have been holding us back from growth.

NEPTUNE

NEPTUNE IN PISCES
A long-term influence in which fantasy, imagination, compassion, and spirituality are in stronger focus. (April 4, 2011 to August 4, 2011, then February 3, 2012 to March 30, 2025, then October 22, 2025 to January 26, 2026)

12TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Plantar artery of right foot
Sabian Symbol: An examination of initiates.

ASPECTS OF NEPTUNE
CONJUNCTION THE SOUTH NODE Orb 8°46′ Applying
You have a tendency to daydream and live in a fantasy world, possibly even escaping into the world of drugs and depression. Your quest in this life is to put your creative talents to positive use.

PLUTO

PLUTO IN CAPRICORN
Tests of our boundaries; breaking down and rebuilding structures and rules. (From January 25, 2008 to June 14, 2008, then November 26, 2008 to March 23, 2023, then June 11, 2023 to January 20, 2024, then September 1, 2024 to November 19, 2024).

18TH DEGREE OF CAPRICORN
Part of Body: Ligaments of right knee
Sabian Symbol: The union jack flies from a new british destroyer.

CHIRON

CHIRON IN PISCES
Strong awareness of our own vulnerabilities and humanity stimulates compassion for others. (April 20 to July 20, 2010, then February 8, 2011 to April 17, 2018, then September 25, 2018 to February 18, 2019).

25TH DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Left distal tibio-fibular joint
Sabian Symbol: The purging of the priesthood.

ASPECTS OF CHIRON
CONJUNCTION THE SOUTH NODE Orb 3°39′ Separating
You have a tendency to become stuck in a mire of self-pity, seeing only the pain and suffering in life. You need to develop the caring and sensitive side of your nature for the good of others.

VESTA

VESTA IN TAURUS
You have the ability to work in a stable and persistent manner. You are committed to working in a comfortable and predictable manner. You need to avoid becoming inflexible.

26TH DEGREE OF TAURUS
Part of Body: Nasal bone
Sabian Symbol: A spaniard serenading his senorita.

PALLAS

PALLAS IN PISCES
You have a meditative mind, the ability to merge in your mind with the universe. You desire to heal the world through words, and may be involved in some form of artistic expression.

3RD DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Nerves of right foot
Sabian Symbol: A petrified forest.

JUNO

JUNO IN SCORPIO
You want an intense and sexual relationship. You want your partner’s total attention and demand a high degree of sensuality.

6TH DEGREE OF SCORPIO
Part of Body: Right epididymus, uterine cavity
Sabian Symbol: A gold rush.

CERES

CERES IN ARIES
You feel cared for when people are allowing you to be independent. You also believe that the best way of caring for others is to let them be themselves. You will suffer if you feel dominated or caged in.

8TH DEGREE OF ARIES
Part of Body: Cheekbone
Sabian Symbol: A woman’s hat with streamers blown by the east wind.

THE NORTH NODE

THE NORTH NODE IN VIRGO
This is a quest to become dedicated to the service of others. You will need to overcome the tendency to daydream and feel overwhelmed and to put your compassion and wisdom to practical use for humanity.

THE SOUTH NODE IN PISCES
This is a quest to become dedicated to the service of others. You will need to overcome the tendency to daydream and feel overwhelmed and to put your compassion and wisdom to practical use for humanity.

21ST DEGREE OF PISCES
Part of Body: Left fibula muscle
Sabian Symbol: A little white lamb, a child and a servant.

Comments

Hallo Annie
I write to thank you for todays reading for Libra. The information is well researched and written and prewarns me of weird Libra behaviours I may display if i get out of balance
I also appreciate these posts arriving when they do as the UK is 5 hours ahead of EDT so for me this is very helpful.
Thank you again
Penny